In America, aging in place has become the norm for many aging adults. Nearly all older adults prefer to age in the comfort of their long-time homes and familiar community surroundings. Aging in place often means living alone. Pew Research findings show that older people are more likely to live alone in the United States than in any other country worldwide. This preference of living solo, however, comes with hidden danger. Research from Science Times reports that living alone in your fifties and sixties increases the likelihood of dementia by thirty percent. The conclusion drawn is based on a r ..read more

Before seeking medical care, imagine if you were ill and had to decide if you could afford it. Unfortunately, for many Americans, seeking medical care hinges on affordability rather than medical necessity. About half of US adults have gone without or delayed medical care in the last year due to a lack of affordability. Even with insurance benefits, many are still unable to afford the high cost. Approximately one-third of insured US adults are worried about being able to afford their monthly premiums. Additionally, 44% worry that they can’t afford their deductible. Health care costs a ..read more

There are many of us who have seen friends and loved ones die slowly and dehumanizingly as a result of Alzheimer’s disease. In the final stages of this and other dementia diseases, there comes a time when your loved one can no longer speak, recognize family members, or move purposefully. A Question of Quality of Life With poor quality of life, many would choose to stop hand-feeding and hydration and allow the dying process to begin. However, long before that time arrives, you or your loved one has lost the capacity to make and express that decision. If you no longer have an effective way to be ..read more

Families and individuals with low incomes can get health insurance through Medicaid. However, because of the steep costs associated with long-term care, Medicaid planning is a growing trend for individuals with higher net worth as an alternative to spending down assets to qualify for benefits. Individuals can plan to meet eligibility requirements by legally restructuring their financial resources and maximizing their likelihood of being accepted into the Medicaid program. Common Reasons to Engage in Medicaid Planning There are many reasons to participate in Medicaid planning, including: ·  ..read more

Senior consumerism is evolving into a market centered on wellness and solutions at an affordable price. Improving and maintaining greater physical and mental health lifestyles through proactive and preventative measures is increasing. For seniors to thrive and flourish in retirement, technology and reliance on community and home-centered care is a game changer for wellness, financial viability, and happiness. Increase of Rentals in Active Adult Communities As adults flock to active adult communities, they create the need for more consumer services and support that allow them to live as long as ..read more

In addition to self-monitoring medical devices, telehealth, and smart homes, the internet of things and technological advancements enable many older Americans to stay in their homes longer and live more safely. Elder law and at-home medical technology uses can intersect in several ways. Whether you are a senior looking to stay in your current home or have an aging parent and want to implement systems that create better safety and communication, an elder law attorney can help you craft a plan. Strategies Legal Documents Elder law attorneys can assist older adults when creating legal documents ..read more

Guardians or conservators usually take care of adults with developmental disabilities who are incapable of making important decisions or caring for themselves. Establishing a legal guardian is the job of the court, which appoints a person (guardian) to make personal and financial decisions for individuals lacking the capacity to make those decisions for themselves. Conservatorship is a similar legal relationship but focuses solely on financial decision-making. In both cases, the court will refer to the adult with the disability as a protected person or ward and focus on the individua ..read more

There are astronomical costs associated with nursing home care if you become seriously ill or injured. You might also know that Medicare would cover only a minimal amount of those costs. Private insurance doesn’t seem like a good bet if you’ve heard horror stories about skyrocketing premium costs and difficulties in obtaining long-term care (LTC) insurance in the first place. The Benefits of Hybrid Long-Term Care Policies “Hybrid” policies essentially combine life insurance or an annuity with LTC coverage. The unique benefits are also known as: ·       Accelerated ..read more

It’s unpleasant to think that a traumatic event or a chronic illness might incapacitate you. People are unfortunately affected by this every day. With this knowledge, many people like to prepare in advance for the kind of treatment they want in the event of cardiac arrest, respiratory failure, stroke, and brain death. Some people would allow doctors to perform “heroic measures,” and others would rather die without significant medical intervention. Medical advance directives are legal documents that outline the details of your advance healthcare planning. There are a few types of medical advanc ..read more

As banking and bill-paying become more challenging as one ages, incapacitation by accident or sudden disease can occur to anyone at any age, creating the same difficulties. Incapacity is not just about mental cognition, accident, or illness. You may have a loved one who cannot drive themselves to the bank or has a distinct visual or hearing impairment. Without a plan, incapacity will jeopardize your loved one’s daily financial activity and preservation of wealth. Some possible solutions for financial oversight include: Having a caregiver provide help Selecting a power of attorney Implementing ..read more